Sherburn Bears bow out after crushing Cougars loss

SHERBURN Bears ARLC missed out on a final appearance in the Pennine League's Supplementary Cup as they lost 50-10 at home to Crofton Cougars.

The result was in little doubt after only 20 minutes as Crofton cruised into an 18-0 lead with three impressive scores.

The Bears were forced to field a weakened team as Sam Booth and Shaun Crossland served suspensions, Rob Hollins, Ryan Smith and Lewis Booth were unavailable, and Joel Booth, Daniel Johnson and Ryan Roebuck were injured.

Defending their unbeaten home record, the Bears slipped further behind before the break and three quick tries from the visitors after half-time made it 38-0.

Sherburn briefly rallied when Alex Booth kicked the ball forward, regathered and fed Ray Boyes, who was hauled down inches short of the line.

A quick play-the-ball found speedy full-back Ben Pugh, who crossed for the Bears first score.

The Bears then enjoyed a period of pressure, which paid off when veteran Matt Orford was stopped short and back rower Adam Wright scooped the ball up and barged his way over.

Half-back Martin Leahy added the goal but Crofton added another two tries.